From the Archives of the Gunn Memorial Museum

One of the smallest museums in Connecticut, the Gunn Memorial Museum in Washington, doesn’t let size stand in its way when it comes to its agenda of events.

The Gunn Historical Museum

The museum, housed in the former home of Mrs. June Willis which she donated in 1964, has an impressive permanent collection. For example, the extensive library of photographs provide a fascinating insight into the former farming community which was frequented by New York society.

Equally interesting is the superb textile and wardrobe collection which spans the 18th to 20th centuries, and includes everything from glamorous gowns to practical work wear .

The museum hosts three themed exhibits each year, the two most recent of which were Life on Lake Waramaug: Past, Present and Future and Washington’s Winter Wonderland, both of which proved to be extremely popular.

In addition to its exhibits, on the first Monday of every month, the museum holds a series of informal lectures, From the Archives, at the Washington Senior Center. Museum staff present a topic and share with attendees photos and stories from Washington’s distinctive past.

Stephen Bartkus

The next reading is on Monday, March 7, 2011 at 10AM, and is to be presented by the museum’s curator, Stephen Bartkus.

The Farrand Family of Washington, Connecticut, was written by Florence Paul Farrand in 1926, and Bartkus will discuss the history of the Farrands, and their lives including the seven slaves that they owned.

The event is free and further information is available from the museum. In the event of heavy snow the program will be canceled, so if in doubt please phone ahead.